In 2024, a significant technological breakthrough was achieved when a hardware development enthusiast named Carl successfully connected an ESP32-based air purifier to Home Assistant without relying on cloud servers. This innovation not only enhanced the device's reliability and security but also provided users with a more seamless and convenient experience. Carl began his research at the start of 2024, aiming to enable direct communication between an ESP32-based air purifier and Home Assistant. Traditional methods typically required devices to transmit data through cloud servers, which introduced latency and increased security risks. Carl's solution, however, eliminated the need for these intermediate steps, allowing the air purifier to connect directly to the Home Assistant instance within the local network. This approach significantly reduced lag and enhanced data security. To achieve this, Carl utilized the Wi-Fi Direct protocol, enabling the air purifier to communicate directly with Home Assistant without the need for an internet connection. This local connection method greatly improved the device's stability and safety, particularly in scenarios requiring rapid response. Users could now control and monitor their air purifiers even when not connected to the internet, which is crucial for privacy protection and data security. By mid-2024, Carl had completed the development and released comprehensive guides and open-source code. These resources were quickly embraced by the tech community, with many users and developers integrating the technology into their own home automation systems. Carl's work also gained recognition within the smart home industry, prompting several companies to explore the integration of cloud-free connection technology into their products. Overall, Carl's innovation addressed major concerns related to latency and security in home automation devices on a global scale. Users reported feeling more reassured about controlling their devices and transmitting data locally, leading to a smoother and more efficient experience. Moreover, Carl's success story inspired other hardware enthusiasts, highlighting the immense potential of open-source communities in driving technological advancements.